RCMP break up theft ring

Investigators from four RCMP detachments have broken up a theft ring alleged to have been operating from Rocky Mountain House to Three Hills.

In a press statement released on Friday, senior members of the Olds and Sundre detachments describe an investigation that included raids on a home in Olds, a motel in Sundre and a rural property near Olds.

The raids were a result of an ongoing investigation that started with a traffic stop in Sundre on Oct. 28. Sundre RCMP allege that the vehicle, reported stolen in Olds, was loaded with stolen property including tools, electronics and copper wire.

A search of a motel room in Sundre two days later recovered additional items, leading Olds and Three Hills RCMP to a rural property near Olds. Investigators allege finding various items there that had been stolen from businesses in Olds and Innisfail.

Fruther investigation led police to a home at 5129 – 51 St. in Olds on Friday. Fire fighters were called to the scene to deal with air quality issues in the building, but police did not identify the cause for their concern.

Police allege that a search of the building and garage recovered $30,000 – $40,000 worth stolen property, including tires, stereo equipment, tools, power tools, gardening tools, gardening chemicals and a firearm.

The recovered items had been reported stolen from businesses in Sundre, Innisfail and Rocky Mountain House.

The investigation continues, with two suspects arrested in Sundre now in custody. Jason Furlong, 29 and Kevin Leischner, 42, face multiple counts of theft, possession of stolen property, possession of break-in tools and obstructing police.

Additional suspects have been arrested and police anticipate laying further charges.